Sensory Modulation Disorders in a Minority Head Start Population: Preliminary Prevalence and Characterization

Abstract

Abstract This study examined the prevalence of sensory modulation disorders (SMD) in a population of minority children enrolled in an urban Head Start program. Parents of 105 children attending Head Start were surveyed using the Short Sensory Profile. Results indicated that 17% to 35% of children could be classified as having SMD, with 43% of children exhibiting extreme under-responsive/sensory-seeking behaviors. Rates of SMD in these children were approximately three times higher than those reported in other populations of young children. Potential reasons for these higher prevalence rates are discussed along with the role of occupational therapists in Head Start settings. Keywords: Sensory modulationhead starthealth disparities Acknowledgements The authors would like to thank the administration, teachers, and families of the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Head Start program for their help and participation in this study. We would also like to acknowledge VCU master's students Courtney Fox and Stefano Baretto who served as research assistants for this project. Notes P.L.108–446, Title I, Part B, Section 613, paragraph (f)